The Murder of Roger Ackroyd at Westport Country Playhouse is a stylish and engrossing adaptation of Agatha Christie's beloved mystery, written by the theater's Artistic Director, Mark Shanahan. Originally premiering at the Alley Theatre in Houston, Texas, Shanahan's adaptation successfully captures the intrigue, wit, and elegance of Christie's classic while creating a thoroughly theatrical experience.
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd follows the untimely death of a wealthy gentleman, Roger Ackroyd (Mark Silence) , whose murder sends a quiet English town into chaos. As secrets, lies, and hidden motives begin to surface, the brilliant detective Hercule Poirot (Anthony Cochrane) comes out of retirement to solve the case. With every suspect concealing something, Poirot must separate truth from fiction before revealing one of Agatha Christie's most celebrated solutions to a murder mystery.
First and foremost, Westport Country Playhouse deserves recognition for assembling an exceptionally accomplished cast. The performers bring with them an impressive list of professional credits and accolades, and that experience is evident from the moment the curtain rises. There is not a weak link in the ensemble. Every actor delivers a fully realized performance, creating a cohesive company in which each character contributes meaningfully to the unfolding mystery.
Shanahan's direction skillfully balances suspense, humor, and the intricate mechanics of a classic whodunit. Managing such a large ensemble is no small feat, yet every movement appears carefully choreographed. His thoughtful use of levels, furniture, and stage composition keeps the action visually engaging while naturally guiding the audience's attention through the many twists and revelations.
The adaptation follows a group of suspects attempting to uncover the identity of the murderer after Roger Ackroyd (Mark Silence) is found dead early in the play. At the center of the investigation is Agatha Christie's legendary detective, Hercule Poirot (Anthony Cochrane), whose razor-sharp intellect contrasts wonderfully with the well-intentioned but often bumbling local Inspector Raglan (Allen Gilmore). Cochrane’s Poirot captures the detective's charm, confidence, and meticulous attention to detail to embody one of literature's most iconic sleuths with precision.
The production's technical elements are equally deserving of praise. The lighting design (Julie Duro) was a key element in production’s success. Scene transitions that might otherwise feel cumbersome are handled with remarkable ease through inventive lighting choices. These moments never distract from the narrative but instead enhance the storytelling, demonstrating clever theatrical problem-solving. In addition, scenic (Charlie Cochrane) and costume (Jeni Schaefer) designs combine to create a world that feels incredibly authentic. The mansion's drawing room is richly appointed with elegant leather furnishings and a fireplace, while the adjoining hallway, writing room, and terrace are also constructed with detail. Every space feels complete and fully incorporated into the vision of the production. Books line the shelves of the writing room, portraits decorate the hallways with purpose, and the French doors are complete with glass panes—all adding another layer of realism. From every sightline, the illusion remains intact, allowing the audience to become completely immersed in the world of the play.
Schaefer’s costume design is among the production's greatest triumphs. The gentlemen's impeccably tailored suits fit each actor flawlessly, with fabrics, textures, and colors reflecting the personalities and social standing of their characters. The women's costumes are equally captivating, showcasing the glamour of the 1920s with tasteful embellishments that communicate wealth and status without becoming excessive. From headpieces to footwear, every detail is thoughtfully considered, making each entrance visually rewarding. The craftsmanship elevates the production and gives the adaptation the sophistication it deserves. My only disappointment concerns the maid's apron, which appeared somewhat wrinkled during the performance. Given the wealth and refinement of the Ackroyd household, a crisper appearance might better reflect the standards one would expect in such an affluent home. Admittedly, the apron itself becomes an important plot element, and I will not reveal why to avoid spoilers.
Among the performances, Gertrud Ackroyd (Karen Ziemba) is a particular standout. From the moment she enters, she commands the stage with vibrant energy, impeccable comic timing, and a wonderfully larger-than-life presence. Her striking costume perfectly complements her flamboyant personality, making every appearance memorable. Fiona (Shereen Ahmed) is equally impressive, bringing elegance and glamour to the stage from her first entrance. Together, they provide strong visual and dramatic contrasts that enrich the production.
I was great seeing an audience that spanned multiple generations. Patrons of all ages appeared fully engaged, responding enthusiastically to both the mystery and the inventive staging. Conversations heard during intermission and after the performance reflected genuine excitement at seeing one of Agatha Christie's most beloved stories brought so successfully to the stage.
Through outstanding performances, meticulous design, and confident direction, Mark Shanahan has crafted an adaptation worthy of Christie's enduring legacy and brought it to life on the Westport Country Playhouse stage. Every artistic department demonstrates a deep commitment to historical authenticity and theatrical excellence, resulting in a production that feels both polished and immersive.
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd runs approximately two hours with one intermission, and the production is suitable for audiences of all ages. Be sure to spend a few moments in the lobby before the performance or during intermission to view the costume design sketches, many of which appear to represent garments created specifically for this production. With both matinee and evening performances available, this is an elegant, entertaining mystery that should not be missed.
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd runs through August 1st at Westport Country Playhouse. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or online at https://www.westportplayhouse.org/